What is ICSI done with?

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI, is a laboratory fertilisation technique. An embryologist holds a mature egg in place under a microscope, selects a sperm, and uses a very fine needle to inject it into the egg.

After injection, the egg is observed for signs of fertilisation and early development. Embryos may be kept in controlled laboratory conditions before the fertility team discusses transfer or storage options. Time-lapse embryo imaging may be used to record development without repeatedly removing embryos from their controlled environment.

Your fertility team will explain ovarian stimulation, egg collection, sperm collection, laboratory steps, and embryo transfer as separate parts of the plan. Share medicines, allergies, medical conditions, and any previous fertility treatment so the team can tailor instructions.

Follow the timing instructions for medicines and appointments carefully. Ask how sperm will be collected or selected, what happens if no mature egg or suitable sperm is available, and when fertilisation updates will be given.

During fertility treatment, contact the clinic for severe abdominal pain, marked bloating, repeated vomiting, faintness, heavy bleeding, fever, or difficulty breathing. After egg collection or embryo transfer, use the clinic's urgent contact route for symptoms that are sudden, intense, or worsening.

Ask why ICSI is being considered, how eggs and sperm will be prepared, whether embryo monitoring is offered, how fertilisation results are reported, and what the next step will be for embryos that are not transferred.